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Physical Assessment Test Guides

Simple, easy-to-understand explanations of common physical assessments. Search for a body part or a specific test name below.

Browse Tests by Body Region

All Assessment Tests

150 tests found
Shoulder

Apprehension Test (Anterior)

The Apprehension test is generally used to test the integrity of the glenohumeral joint capsule, or to assess glenohumeral instability in an anterior direction.

Read the Apprehension Test (Anterior) guide
Shoulder

Hawkins-Kennedy Test

To detect **subacromial impingement syndrome**, specifically involving the supraspinatus tendon or biceps long head tendon.

Read the Hawkins-Kennedy Test guide
Shoulder

Sulcus Sign

The sulcus test is used to assess the glenohumeral joint for inferior instability, due to laxity of the superior glenohumeral ligament and coracohumeral ligament.It was first described by Neer and Foster in 1980 to examine multidirectional instability

Read the Sulcus Sign guide
Shoulder

Yergason's Test

To assess for **pathology of the Long Head of the Biceps tendon** (e.g., instability, tear, or tendinopathy) and its stability in the bicipital groove.

Read the Yergason's Test guide
Elbow

Elbow Quadrant Tests

A generalized term for assessing the **end-feel and range of motion** of the elbow joint in flexion and extension, often used to assess stiffness or loose bodies.

Read the Elbow Quadrant Tests guide
Elbow

Cozen's Test

To detect **Lateral Epicondylitis** (Tennis Elbow), which is tendinopathy of the **Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis (ECRB)** origin.

Read the Cozen's Test guide
Elbow

Mill's Test

To detect **Lateral Epicondylitis** (Tennis Elbow) by passively stressing the common extensor tendon origin.

Read the Mill's Test guide
Wrist/Hand

Beighton Score

To quantify **generalized joint hypermobility** (laxity) across the body. The wrist/hand components assess passive joint laxity.

Read the Beighton Score guide
Wrist/Hand

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

This is the **condition name** (inflammation of the APL and EPB tendons), not a specific test. The Finkelstein Test is the primary diagnostic test.

Read the De Quervain's Tenosynovitis guide
Wrist/Hand

Elson Test

To assess the integrity of the **Central Slip** of the Extensor Digitorum Communis (EDC) tendon, rupture of which leads to a Boutonniere deformity.

Read the Elson Test guide
Wrist/Hand

Flick Sign

A symptom-based history sign used to screen for **Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)**.

Read the Flick Sign guide
Wrist/Hand

Phalen’s Test

To provoke symptoms associated with **Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)**, which is median nerve entrapment at the wrist.

Read the Phalen’s Test guide

How to use this library

These guides are designed to help you understand what happens during a physical exam. Click on any test to see a video demonstration and a step-by-step breakdown.Learn about our mission →

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⚠️ Not for diagnostic use. Consult a doctor for any pain or symptoms.